Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos

Crispy chicken wonton tacos are a delightful fusion of textures and flavors, perfect for any occasion. The combination of crunchy wonton wrappers filled with tender teriyaki chicken and vibrant coleslaw makes this dish a standout choice for quick weeknight dinners, casual get-togethers, or even a fun appetizer at parties. Enjoy the unique twist on classic tacos that will leave your guests asking for more!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe is straightforward, allowing you to whip up delicious tacos in just 25 minutes.
• Flavor-Packed: The teriyaki sauce and fresh ingredients create a burst of flavor in every bite.
• Versatile Dish: Customize the filling or toppings based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
• Perfect for Sharing: These tacos are great for parties or gatherings, making them an ideal appetizer.
• Healthy Option: With lean chicken and fresh veggies, these tacos are a nutritious choice without sacrificing taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this tasty recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Frying pan

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: Perfect for cooking the chicken evenly and quickly over medium heat.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for marinating the chicken and tossing the coleslaw mix together.
• Knife: Necessary for slicing the chicken and chopping green onions and cilantro.
• Frying pan: Used to fry the wonton wrappers until crispy.

Ingredients

Crispy chicken wonton tacos combine the crunch of fried wonton wrappers with tender teriyaki chicken and fresh coleslaw for a quick and tasty meal.

For the Chicken Filling

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
• 1 tbsp sesame oil (divided)
• 1 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated

For the Coleslaw

• 2 cups coleslaw mix (cabbage and carrots)
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp honey

For Assembly

• 12 wonton wrappers
• 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce
• 1 tsp sesame seeds
• 2 tbsp chopped cilantro

How to Make Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Marinate the sliced chicken by combining it with teriyaki sauce, 1/2 tablespoon of sesame oil, low-sodium soy sauce, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to absorb all those flavors.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken. Cook until fully done, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Step 3: Prepare the Coleslaw

In a mixing bowl, toss together coleslaw mix, sliced green onions, rice vinegar, honey, and the remaining sesame oil until well combined.

Step 4: Fry the Wonton Wrappers

In a frying pan, heat oil over medium-high heat. Lightly fry each wonton wrapper for about 20-30 seconds per side until they are golden brown and crispy. Remove them from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Assemble the Tacos

Fill each crispy wonton wrapper with cooked chicken and top it with the prepared coleslaw mixture. Drizzle sweet chili sauce over each taco.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Finish off your tacos by sprinkling sesame seeds and chopped cilantro on top. Serve immediately while they’re still warm!

How to Serve Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos

Crispy chicken wonton tacos are versatile and can be served in various delightful ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Casual Party Platter

• Arrange the tacos on a large platter, garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for a colorful presentation.

Taco Bar Setup

• Set up a taco bar with additional toppings like sliced jalapeños, avocado, or diced tomatoes. Let guests customize their crispy chicken wonton tacos.

Appetizer Bites

• Serve mini versions of the tacos as bite-sized appetizers at gatherings. Cut the wonton wrappers into smaller squares for easy handling.

Pair with Dipping Sauces

• Offer a variety of dipping sauces such as sweet chili sauce, peanut sauce, or soy sauce for added flavor and excitement.

Add Fresh Greens

• Serve the tacos alongside a fresh salad or lettuce wraps to balance the richness of the fried wontons.

How to Perfect Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos

To ensure your crispy chicken wonton tacos are always a hit, consider these helpful tips for perfection.

• Marinate Well: Allow the chicken to marinate longer than 10 minutes if possible. This enhances flavor and tenderness.
• Heat Oil Properly: Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying. This will ensure your wontons become perfectly crispy without absorbing too much oil.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh coleslaw mix and herbs make a significant difference in taste. Opt for high-quality produce for better flavor.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Fry the wonton wrappers in batches to prevent them from sticking together and ensure even cooking.
• Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to customize your filling by adding vegetables or different proteins, keeping it exciting each time you make them.

Best Side Dishes for Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos

Crispy chicken wonton tacos pair well with various side dishes that complement their flavors and textures. Here are some tasty options to consider:

1. Mango Salsa: A refreshing fruit salsa that adds sweetness and tang, perfect for balancing the savory tacos.
2. Cucumber Salad: A light salad made with sliced cucumbers, rice vinegar, and sesame oil offers crunch and acidity.
3. Edamame Beans: Steamed edamame sprinkled with sea salt is a nutritious snack that complements the meal beautifully.
4. Vegetable Spring Rolls: These crispy rolls filled with fresh veggies provide a delightful crunch alongside your tacos.
5. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries add sweetness and texture contrast, making for a satisfying combination.
6. Thai Basil Rice: Flavorful rice infused with Thai basil pairs well with Asian-inspired dishes like these tacos.
7. Grilled Corn Salad: A zesty corn salad topped with lime juice and cilantro enhances the meal’s freshness.
8. Spicy Pickled Vegetables: These add a tangy kick that contrasts nicely with the richness of the fried tacos.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making crispy chicken wonton tacos is easy, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Boldly skip the marinating – Not allowing the chicken to marinate can lead to bland flavor. Always marinate for at least 10 minutes to enhance the taste.
• Boldly overcrowd the skillet – Cooking too much chicken at once can result in uneven cooking. Work in batches if necessary to ensure each piece is properly cooked.
• Boldly ignore oil temperature – Frying wonton wrappers in oil that is not hot enough can make them soggy. Ensure the oil is hot before frying for maximum crispiness.
• Boldly under-season your slaw – A lack of seasoning in your coleslaw mix can lead to a dull dish. Make sure to taste and adjust the seasoning for a balanced flavor profile.
• Boldly forget about garnishing – Skipping garnishes like sesame seeds and cilantro can make your dish less appealing. These add both flavor and visual appeal, so don’t skip them!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover crispy chicken wonton tacos in an airtight container.
• They will keep well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos

• Freeze individual tacos in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos

• Bold Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.
• Bold Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, but note that this might make them less crispy.
• Bold Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making crispy chicken wonton tacos.

How do I make my own teriyaki sauce for Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos?

You can easily make your own teriyaki sauce by combining soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, and a splash of rice vinegar. Cook it on low heat until thickened.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Absolutely! You can substitute turkey or beef if you prefer. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure they are fully cooked.

What can I serve with Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos?

These tacos pair well with a side of fried rice, steamed vegetables, or a light salad for a complete meal.

Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the teriyaki chicken and coleslaw mix ahead of time and store them separately until you’re ready to assemble your tacos.

Are there vegetarian options for these tacos?

Certainly! You can replace chicken with tofu or tempeh seasoned with similar spices and sauces for a delicious vegetarian option.

Final Thoughts

Crispy chicken wonton tacos are not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. Feel free to customize them with your favorite ingredients or sauces. Enjoy experimenting with different flavors while delighting your family or guests!